When Anurag Kashyap decides to make a film, Bollywood pays attention. His latest directorial venture ‘Bandar’ (Monkey in a Cage) has already created waves at the Toronto International Film Festival, and the story behind its creation is as fascinating as the film itself.
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The Filmmaker Who Never Plays It Safe
Anurag Kashyap only agreed to direct the controversial prison drama under one critical condition: acclaimed writer Sudip Sharma had to pen the script. This wasn’t just a creative whim—it was a strategic decision that would shape one of 2025’s most talked-about films.
Quick Facts: Bandar at a Glance
| Element | Details |
|---|---|
| Director | Anurag Kashyap |
| Lead Stars | Bobby Deol, Sanya Malhotra |
| Writers | Sudip Sharma, Abhishek Banerjee |
| Premiere | TIFF 2025 Special Presentations |
| Inspiration | Real-life events |
| Theme | India’s flawed justice system |
| English Title | Monkey in a Cage |
Why Sudip Sharma Was Non-Negotiable
Kashyap found the subject matter “very complex” and “very difficult,” making Sharma’s involvement essential. Known for creating gripping shows like ‘Paatal Lok’ and ‘Kohrra’, Sharma brings the psychological depth needed to tackle sensitive themes.
This collaboration represents Anurag Kashyap at his calculated best—choosing a writer who understands moral ambiguity and can navigate controversial waters without sensationalism.
The Bobby Deol Transformation
‘Bandar’ marks the first collaboration between Anurag Kashyap and Bobby Deol, and early reactions suggest it’s career-defining. The film showcases Deol in a raw, vulnerable avatar—far removed from his recent villainous roles in ‘Animal’ and the ‘Ashram’ series.
The story follows Samar, an aging television star whose celebrity is fading, offering Deol the perfect canvas to display his dramatic range.
Addressing the Controversy Head-On
Post-TIFF premiere, Anurag Kashyap has been vocal about clarifying misconceptions. He firmly stated the film “has nothing to do with MeToo,” emphasizing that while the narrative involves a false accusation, it’s fundamentally about power dynamics and systemic corruption.
This clarification matters because it shifts focus from controversy to the film’s real intent: examining India’s overburdened legal system and the human cost of incarceration.
What Sets This Film Apart
Anurag Kashyap’s filmography—from ‘Gangs of Wasseypur’ to ‘Dev.D’—proves he’s never shied from uncomfortable truths. ‘Bandar’ continues this legacy by:
- Exploring grey areas: No heroes or villains, just flawed humans
- Showcasing systemic failures: The justice system becomes a character itself
- Prioritizing authenticity: Real-life inspiration grounds the narrative
- Challenging audiences: Forcing viewers to question their assumptions
Producer Nikhil Dwivedi’s backing adds credibility. His previous work on bold projects like ‘Veere Di Wedding’ shows commitment to unconventional storytelling.
The Kashyap Touch
What makes Anurag Kashyap one of India’s most significant filmmakers is his refusal to provide easy answers. ‘Bandar’ promises the same unflinching gaze that made ‘Black Friday’ and ‘Ugly’ so impactful.
His films don’t just entertain—they provoke, disturb, and ultimately enlighten. This willingness to hold a mirror to society’s uncomfortable truths is precisely why he insisted on Sudip Sharma’s involvement.
Why This Matters for Indian Cinema
Anurag Kashyap continues pushing boundaries when many filmmakers play it safe. By drawing inspiration from real-life events, ‘Bandar’ joins the ranks of socially conscious cinema that demands attention and sparks conversation.
The film’s TIFF selection validates India’s growing reputation for producing world-class content that transcends geographical boundaries.
What’s Next for the Maverick Director
Fresh from ‘Nishaanchi’ and with ‘Bandar’ generating festival buzz, Anurag Kashyap shows no signs of slowing down. His journey from indie darling to festival favorite proves that uncompromising vision finds its audience eventually.
As ‘Bandar’ prepares for its theatrical release, one thing is certain: Anurag Kashyap has crafted another conversation starter. Whether you agree with his choices or not, you can’t ignore them—and that’s exactly how he likes it.
Are you ready to witness Bobby Deol’s transformation under Kashyap’s unflinching lens? This might be the most important Indian film of 2025.
